CERTIFICATE AND MASTER OF DATA AND COMMUNICATION
Elevate Your
Insights.
Ready to be the person with all the answers? Join us at the forefront of data-driven communications. This program was created to meet an intense demand in the market for people who can tell a story with data. You'll learn how to collect rock-solid data, interpret nuance, and create digital strategies that get results.
IS THIS PROGRAM RIGHT FOR ME?
The Data and Communication program is perfect for:
- Recent graduates who want to advance quickly in their careers with an in-demand skill set
- Marketing professionals who want to expand their capacity for working with data
Today's employers are looking for communications experts - specifically, those that can leverage data to give them a competitive edge.
Ours is the only program in the state that's available completely online. That means you don't have to move to Columbia to get a USC degree.
This interdisciplinary program shares prestigious DNA with both the School of Journalism and Mass Communications and the School of Information Science.
Data-Driven Digital Storytelling.
Communications professionals need to know how to analyze and visualize data. This program will put you in a strong position to apply for advanced communications careers in any field.
Admission Criteria Apply TodayReady to become an expert?
Some people want to get into the workforce as quickly as possible, others want the distinction of a master's degree from USC. The first half of our program will earn you a certificate credential, which can stand alone, or you can continue on to get your master's degree.
Certificate in data and communication
- 12 Credit Hours
- 3 Core + 1 Elective Course
- Certificate Only
- Data and Digital Communication Fundamentals
- Strategic Communication
- Data - student chooses between Knowledge Discovery, Information Visualization, or other approved courses
- Elective
Master of data and communication
- 30 Credit Hours
- 7 Core + 3 Elective Courses
- Master + Certificate
- Data and Digital Communication Fundamentals
- Strategic Communication
- Knowledge Discovery Techniques (Data Science)
- Digital Law and Ethics
- Research Methods
- Information
- Capstone
- Electives
Nothing happens without numbers.
Writing well isn't enough. Today's communication professionals are analyzing audience data and finding insights that help drive effective content strategies. USC's Data and Communication program is training the next generation of leaders, drawing from both the School of Journalism and Mass Communications and the School of Information Science. By combining the art of communications and the science of data analysis, our graduates are equipped with the expertise to lead the next evolution of digital storytelling.
View Program DetailsCareer Paths
As a graduate of the Data and Communication program at USC, you'll have a competitive edge when applying for creative positions that benefit from a data analysis background. You'll be eligible to work in fields like:
Which Master's Should I Get?
Here's how they compare:
Master of Mass Communication
Offered as an in-person program and online program by the School of Journalism and Mass Communications
Focus: Multimedia Journalism (in-person only) and Strategic Communication Management
- Can complete Strategic Communications courses online
- 36 credit hours
- Can complete part-time or full-time
- No certificate option, but an in-person joint JD-MMC is available for those interested in media law
Master of Data and Communication
Collaboration between the School of Journalism and Mass Communications and the School of Information Science
Focus: Data-Driven Communications and Data Insights
- Fully online program with internships offered either in-person or online
- 30 credit hours
- Can complete part-time
- Can complete certificate program (12 hours) first with the option to continue on to also earn a master's degree
Take the Next Step
Instantly schedule a time to meet with a member of our student recruitment team.
Request more information about CIC deadlines, programs, and updates.
Start, resume, or finish your application online. See admission guidelines for more details.
Connect With Us Now
Call us at 803-777-5277 or reach out via email.